Elder care for Alzheimer's: Choosing a provider

Elder care for Alzheimer's: Choosing a provider

Question

I am considering finding an elder care center for a loved one with Alzheimer's. What should I look for when considering a provider?

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Answer

Elder care, or adult care, can provide an opportunity for your loved one with Alzheimer's to receive assistance and therapeutic activities in a group setting.

Being a full-time caregiver can be tiring and time-consuming. Elder care can provide you with a temporary break to relax, to get errands done or to complete housework. Also, elder care may be an option for your loved one if you work full time during the day.

In the U.S. you can locate elder care services available in your area by using the Department of Health and Human Services' Eldercare Locator website. This website provides contact information for your state or local area agency on aging (AAA). The AAA will connect you with someone who will help guide you to specific elder care service providers.

Behavior management, such as needing to be watched so he or she doesn't wander off

Counseling

Activities, such as art, music, recreation or support groups

Exercise

Physical, occupational or speech therapy

Medical care

Medication management

Meals and nutrition

Personal care, such as bathing and eating

Special needs, such as needing wheelchair access

If you're choosing among more than one provider, some additional considerations are:

Location. How convenient is it?

Hours. What are drop-off and pickup times? Does your loved one need to attend a minimum number of hours or days a week? Does the provider need notice if your loved one will not be attending one day?

Costs. Often, costs are out-of-pocket, but some long-term care insurance plans may cover this type of care. Some providers offer options, such as allowing you to pay a certain amount depending on your income. Ask your provider about all fees involved in elder care. Costs may vary depending on the services available and the provider's location.

Services and programs. What services and programs are offered?

Group activities. Are people with Alzheimer's in a separate group from other people or are they included in group activities?

Staff. Is the staff trained in working with people with Alzheimer's disease? What health care professionals are on staff? How does the provider screen staff? What are the provider's staffing ratios?

Safety. How does this provider ensure the safety of every person?

Emergencies. How does this provider deal with emergency situations?

Transportation. Does the provider have transportation available for people who may need it?

Ensuring quality careEntrusting your loved one to someone else's care can be difficult. When you're choosing a center, here are some suggestions to consider to ensure that your loved one will get quality care:

Ask for references. Ask other caregivers about their experiences. Ask for references and talk to a few people who have used the provider.

Do some research. Ask the AAA representative or a local senior center whether they have any specific information on the facility you're considering.

Ask questions. On a first visit to a potential facility, walk through and ask several questions, including questions about available services, the center's certification and licenses, and staff training. The National Adult Day Services Association has a site-visit question checklist you can print and take with you.

Try it out. When you think you have decided on a center, try it out. Be aware that it may take some time for your loved one to feel comfortable in the new surroundings.